What Is the Balance Between Pride and Humility?
Jesus emphatically taught us that personal humility is a primary ingredient in this life of anyone professing to be his disciple. His own humble example was an unmistakable illustration of what our lives are supposed to look like. When it came to pride, to self-exaltation, he was just as emphatic. As we strive to understand how to apply humility and avoid pride, several questions come to the surface. First, what does true humility mean? Is it a self-deprecating behavior that renounces our ability to be or do anything good? And what about pride? Are we to never be “proud” one or of any accomplishment in our lives? As usual, when we examine the Scriptures, the answers to these questions about humility and pride will all present themselves with great clarity.
What is humility exactly?
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Humility is not thinking less of yourself but is honestly assessing who you are and using your God-given abilities without self-importance. Scripture teaches that self-exaltation leads to humiliation, while those who humble themselves before God will be exalted in His time. Jesus, Moses, the apostles and the Apostle Paul all demonstrate that true humility and faithful service go hand in hand.
Jesus provided the ultimate example of humility by willingly serving others (https://youtu.be/8wjNbdP3ENw?si=sKJnaueSz0EmUbZZ) , lowering himself to do the Father’s will, and remaining approachable despite the authority entrusted to him. The apostles built upon that example, teaching Christians to associate with the humble and regard others as more important than themselves. They are to recognize that every blessing, ability and opportunity comes from God.
Talents are important!
While the Scriptures consistently condemn arrogance and boastful pride, they also show that Christians may rejoice in God’s providence and faithfully use their talents. The crucial distinction is that glory belongs to God, not us. The pattern is clear: we are directed away from self-promotion and towards a humble
